Plummer cuts loan spell short

TORQUAY United's on-loan forward Tristan Plummer is returning to Bristol City after only a month at Plainmoor.

But Gulls boss Paul Buckle is still hoping to strengthen his promotion-chasing squad with another signing before the January transfer window closes on Monday.

Plummer, 19 yesterday, was due to remain on loan with United until the end of the season.

But those agreements can be cut short after 28 days, and the former England Under-17 international returns to Ashton Gate after making just one appearance for the Gulls, in a 1-0 FA Trophy win over Rushden & Diamonds on January 10.

Plummer had previously spent two months on loan at Luton earlier this season.

But despite being able to play as a striker or on the wing, he did not make the seven-man subs bench for United's FA Cup-tie against Coventry City last Saturday, nor was he involved in Tuesday night's 2-0 league win at Lewes.

"Tristan didn't really settle, and him going back is the best for all three parties," said Buckle.

But there is a chance that it may be 'one out and one in' for United over the weekend.

Buckle is trying to sign an experienced forward, believed to be at a rival Blue Square Premier club.

Loan deals are not affected by the transfer window.

And Gulls defender Chris Todd, who gets married tomorrow, has already indicated that he might be prepared to go out on loan as part of his comeback from injury and chronic myeloid leukaemia.